E-scooters have become an incredibly convenient form of personal transportation, especially those living in metro areas of Connecticut. The advancements in micro-mobility over the past 20 years has been substantial, including both speed and the range of e-scooters.
The rise of e-scooter and e-bike use also means that the chances of an accident involving them has also increased. With that said, there have been laws adopted that govern the use of e-scooters and e-bikes in a number of cities across the country. However, these laws can vary from state to state or city to city. In this article, we will highlight some of the most important e-scooter laws to remember in the state of Connecticut.
If you've been involved in an accident and were injured, it is important to consult with a CT personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and what your options are.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has serviced clients in Connecticut and the surrounding states for decades. Allow us to provide you legal support you need in your case.
Scooter Definition in Connecticut
A typical scooter is a two-wheeled, seatless, motorless vehicle. It moves by the human pushing off with their legs in a standing position. In Connecticut, using a regular scooter does not require a license of any kind, nor does it have an age limit. However, you cannot ride a scooter on public roads or highways. Scooters without motors are only allowed on private roads and sidewalks.
In Connecticut, however, a motorized scooter is classified as a motor vehicle. It belongs to the same category as "motor driven cycles," which also includes mopeds and motorcycles. An engine on a motor scooter might be either gas or electric. A motor scooter is exempt from registration if its engine is 50cc or smaller. However, scooters with larger engines need to be registered in Connecticut.
E-Scooter: What Is It?
Electric motors are used by e-scooters, often known as electric scooters. Due to the availability of rentable dockless e-scooters, they have significantly increased in popularity in Connecticut. As of October 1, 2019, electric scooters are permitted in CT as long as they are not driven faster than 20 mph and are not used on public walkways. In Connecticut, riding an e-scooter or motor scooter is restricted to the road or designated bicycle lanes.
Is a CT Driver's License Required to Operate a Scooter?
It is dependent on the type of scooter. In Connecticut, one does not need a normal driver's license to operate a non-motorized scooter. However, you need to get a driver's license before you may operate an e-scooter or motor scooter. To operate any two-wheeled vehicle with an assist motor, one must possess a driver's license. However, in order to operate a vehicle that is categorized as a motorcycle, you do not need to have a M endorsement on your license.
Does Connecticut Have Helmet Laws For Scooters?
In Connecticut, a helmet is required for any individual under the age of 18 operating or as a passenger on a motor scooter. However, if you are riding a non-motorized scooter or are older than 18, you do not require a helmet. If you don't wear a helmet when required by Connecticut law, you will be fined at least $90.
In Connecticut, Who Is Liable for a Scooter Accident?
In Connecticut, it is illegal for anyone to ride a scooter of any kind on a sidewalk or state roadway with limited access. In Connecticut, unless you're turning left, you have to stay as near to the right side of the road as you can when operating a motor scooter or e-scooter. Those riding scooters are required to abide by all applicable traffic rules and signage, such as speed restrictions and traffic signals. A scooter operator who breaks the law may be held liable for any accident that is caused by that violation.
However, if a driver violates a traffic law or drives carelessly, such as texting while driving, and causes a motor vehicle accident involving a scooter, the driver may be liable to pay for the accident. Since Connecticut is a "fault" state, the responsible party for an accident bears the financial burden.
CT Personal Injury Lawyers At Brandon J. Broderick Are Here For You
After any kind of accident, it's normal to feel overwhelmed, especially if you were hurt while riding an e-scooter. You can pursue compensation, and Brandon J. Broderick's personal injury lawyers can assist you.
Our law firm is dedicated to giving our clients the best available legal counsel. We sincerely care about our clients' well-being and maintain an open channel of contact.
Contact us today to discuss your case. We offer free consultations and we have no upfront fees. We are not paid unless we are successful in recovering damages in your case.